Headache

Headache is a common symptom of brain tumor. It is sometimes accompanied by nausea and vomiting. Often, these headaches are more painful when first awakening in the morning. They may even wake patients during sleep. The headaches may be associated with visual changes, particularly double vision and sudden loss of vision. These headaches can be worsened with Valsalva (a method that involves holding your breath and straining).

Cognitive and Behavioral Changes

The types of cognitive and behavioral changes that occur depend on the area of the brain being affected by tumor and swelling. As a tumor grows, changes can occur in:

Vision

Memory

Comprehension and/or expression of language

Sensation and processing of sensory input

Personality—including both increased lack of emotion or impulsiveness

Ability to do learned movements or gestures

Ability to process information

Other Physical and Neurological Symptoms

The location of the tumor and the swelling around the tumor are responsible for the types of symptoms that patients have. Changes in normal function may include:

Difficulty with coordination and walking

Difficulty controlling bowels and bladder

Weakness or loss of sensation in parts of the body

Nausea or vomiting

Fatigue

Drowsiness

Sudden Events—Seizures and Strokes

Generalized or major motor
seizures
—These can cause you to pass out and shake violently. You may lose control of your urine or bowels and bite your tongue. These seizures begin in one part of the brain, but spread throughout the brain.

Focal seizures—These type of seizures cause one part of your body to shake uncontrollably. These seizures may start in one area and progress to generalized seizures. Focal seizures may also occur without any shaking. They may or may not involve a change in consciousness.

Without any shaking, part of your body may just stop working. This is similar to the symptoms individuals may have during a
stroke
, but it may be caused by the brain tumor or swelling around the brain tumor.

Some seizures are quick changes of consciousness and do not involve any shaking.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.